Factors influencing the development of early childhood caries

Abstract

Introduction. Early childhood caries affects millions of children each year. The frequency of this condition is increasing, and the most disadvantaged children are those who come from low socio-economic families. There is a limited understanding of the interaction of parental knowledge and behavioral and socioeconomic factors that influence the onset of this condition. Aim of the study. Analysis of socio-economic and behavioral factors related to oral and food hygiene and their relationship with the development of early childhood caries. Material and methods. A group of 620 patients aged 2 to 6 years was selected and referred to the University Dental Clinic. The children were examined and the value of the index of frequency and activity of dental caries was calculated. A questionnaire for parents was used to collect data on the socio-economic characteristics of patients and their families and the behavioral factors of oral and food hygiene. Results.There was a direct relationship between low socioeconomic status and the intensity of early childhood caries in children (p=0.04). The intensity of dental caries was also directly related to the parents' behaviors related to the childs oral hygiene and food hygiene (p < 0.01). Conclusion. Socio-economic status is directly related to poor oral hygiene behaviors and cariogenic nutrition. These in turn were related to a higher frequency and intensity of early childhood caries.